Mark Pritchard
MP for The Wrekin
Con
5 May 2005 - Present
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Stoke Heath will see an increase of 121 asylum seekers within weeks, equivalent to a massive population surge. This level of dispersal into a small rural area seems unfair. Is the Deputy Prime Minister in agreement?
Context
A small rural settlement, Stoke Heath, is set to receive a significant influx of asylum seekers, raising concerns about the impact on the local community.
David Lammy
Reduction in net migration of 82% over 23 months; honesty about detaining people when necessary. Immigration Minister will look at the matter.
Assessment
Did not explicitly state whether it is fair for small rural communities to experience such significant population increases
Session: PMQs
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The UK’s nuclear deterrent has kept this country safe for over five decades. As the Deputy Prime Minister will know, it is operationally independent, but it still relies on US defence supply chains. Given the shaking of traditional alliances, could the Deputy Prime Minister reassure the House and the country that the UK has sufficient stockpiles of the component parts of the Trident II D5 missiles in our nuclear submarines, and ensure that the supply chain remains resilient and able to cope with any change in the White House, whether positive or negative?
Context
The UK’s nuclear deterrent relies on US defence supply chains. Concerns about traditional alliances and potential changes in the White House.
The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr David Lammy)
The right hon. Gentleman raises an important issue. It is why I was pleased to work with the Defence Secretary on the strategic defence review and why we are investing £270 billion over this Parliament in defence.
Session: PMQs
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Consequential to President Trump’s misunderstanding of Putin’s strategic intent for both Ukraine and Europe is the Prime Minister’s solemn responsibility to keep this country safe. Given the known hypersonic and ballistic missile threat from Russia, and the fact that the United Kingdom has no current counter to that, what is the Prime Minister going to do to keep this country safe from those that have already threatened us?
Context
Concerns over Russia's strategic intent for both Ukraine and Europe, particularly in light of the known hypersonic and ballistic missile threat.
The Prime Minister (Keir Starmer)
It is the first duty of the Prime Minister to keep this country safe; that duty is paramount and above all else, and I take it extremely seriously and treat it as my No. 1 priority. We review our security and defence arrangements all the time, and we are, particularly, a leading member of NATO, which is the single most effective military alliance the world has ever seen.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister join me in calling on the Ministry of Justice to ensure that there are enough resources and that the right governance is in place at Stoke Heath?
Context
HM Prison Stoke Heath in Shropshire has seen six deaths in custody in less than two years, above the national average.
The Prime Minister
The Secretary of State for Justice will look into the matter and take up the suggestion, and I will arrange for a meeting as soon as possible.
Session: PMQs
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The Prime Minister will know that there is consensus across this House on the need to build new houses. Where that consensus breaks down is where those houses should be built. Does the Prime Minister agree with me that, wherever possible, new houses should be built on brownfield sites, not on green spaces, not on green fields, and certainly not on prime farmland?
Context
There is a consensus on the need to build new houses, but where these should be built remains contentious.
Rishi Sunak
My right hon. Friend is absolutely right: sustainable planning must be at the heart of our planning system. That is why we are committed to meeting the needs of communities by building homes in the right places and, as he says, making best use of brownfield land. We have made it clear that that is what the priority should be and we have put extra funding aside to unlock those sites. Our recent changes to the national planning policy framework provide clearer protection for the green belt, making it clear how future housing supply should be assessed.
Session: PMQs
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Does the Prime Minister agree that agritech—in particular, the excellent work of the Crop and Environment Research Centre at Harper Adams University in Shropshire—is a vital part of the UK economy? I know that he has a busy schedule, but will he dispatch the Secretary of State to come and look at that research centre, and in particular to see the women at Harper Adams leading science and maths—and, indeed, leading the world?
Context
Harper Adams University in Shropshire is a leading institution for agritech research.
Rishi Sunak
I agree with my right hon. Friend. Harper Adams is a fantastic example of the type of innovation and skills provision that we need in our agritech sector. That is why I am pleased that, post Brexit, we can introduce the gene editing Bill, which will help to drive productivity and efficiency in our agricultural sector even further.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister join me in thanking Shropshire's defence engineers, in both the public and private sectors, who are currently working on the Warrior and Boxer military vehicle programmes and doing a great job? As the Government consider making a decision on the Challenger 2 life extension programme, will he bear in mind that excellent workforce in Shropshire, who have such a history and a modern-day practice of delivering UK defence?
Context
Shropshire's defence engineers are currently working on the Warrior and Boxer military vehicle programmes. The Government is considering a decision on the Challenger 2 life extension programme.
Boris Johnson
Of course I am familiar with the superb workforce in Shropshire to which my hon. Friend refers. There is a competition currently going on, and negotiations are going on with the modernisation that he speaks of. As he knows, we have made the biggest investment in our defences since the cold war with the recent spending review, but it would not be right for me to comment on those negotiations at this stage.
Assessment
Did not address the specific ask about taking into account Shropshire's workforce
It Would Not Be Right For Me To Comment On Those Negotiations
Session: PMQs
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Pritchard asked Raab to allow garden centres and nurseries to open in phase 1, stressing economic and social benefits. He requested SAGE consider this again.
Context
Pritchard noted the importance of horticultural sector for Shropshire's economy.
Dominic Raab (First Secretary of State)
Raab thanked Pritchard for his plea, acknowledged economic and social importance. He noted SAGE has already considered this once and will consider again. Emphasised they would continue to be guided by evidence in decision-making.
Assessment
None
Session: PMQs
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Is the Minister aware that speculative developers want to build 800 new houses in Albrighton, in my constituency, inside the green belt and outside the local plan? Let me be clear: the constituents I met in a public meeting on Friday are not against housing—they are just against housing at the wrong scale and in the wrong location. This is not about nimbyism, but about protecting nature, open spaces and the green belt. On consultation, nearly 4,000 signed a local petition against these flawed proposals. Does the Minister accept that Shropshire's green belt needs to be protected from this destruction?
Context
Speculative developers want to build 800 new houses in Albrighton, inside the green belt and outside the local plan, which has caused significant public concern.
Matthew Pennycook
I am aware of the case. My understanding is that Shropshire council refused planning permission for the development on the basis that the land was not grey belt and therefore building on it would constitute inappropriate development in the green belt. In general terms, when it comes to determining whether a site is classified as grey belt, the relevant inspector will, at appeal, consider relevant legislation; national planning policy, including the national planning policy framework; planning policy guidance; and any other relevant local development plan policies and material considerations.
Session: Grey Belt Shropshire 2026-09-07
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What information her Department holds on the percentage of Green Belt land that is classified as grey belt in Shropshire.
Context
The MP is concerned about the classification of Green Belt land in Shropshire and its potential reclassification as grey belt.
Matthew Pennycook
The Government do not collect data on how much land within green belts has been formally identified as grey belt by individual local authorities. It is for local authorities themselves to determine whether land in their areas constitutes grey belt, either through plan making or through looking at specific applications. On 27 February 2025, the Government updated green-belt planning practice guidance to support a consistent approach to assessing green belt to identify grey-belt land.
Session: Grey Belt Shropshire 2026-09-07
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The MP congratulates the Secretary of State on his appointment and asks him to throw his support behind the WSMR's open-access application to the Office of Rail and Road. The new revised application would include Wellington in the MP's constituency and give a £3 million economic boost to that market town. The MP asks the Secretary of State to work with Network Rail, the Office of Rail and Road and the Transport Secretary to get the new timetable and route delivered.
Context
The MP is concerned about the connectivity benefits of the WSMR's proposal for an open-access application to the Office of Rail and Road.
Stephen Kinnock
I know about and welcome the right hon. Gentleman's strong connections to Wales. I recognise the connectivity benefits that WSMR's proposal could deliver, particularly for passengers in Wales and the west midlands. I am pleased that the Secretary of State for Transport has provided conditional support for the application, subject to the Office of Rail and Road and Network Rail being satisfied that services can be accommodated without compromising network performance or affecting the rights of other operators. I will certainly join him in making the case for that compelling project.
Session: Cross-border Rail Links 2026-09-02
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What steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to improve cross-border rail links between Wales, Shropshire and London. The MP notes that the £14 billion investment in rail in Wales will transform connectivity across Wales and between Wales and the rest of the United Kingdom.
Context
The MP is concerned about the connectivity benefits of improving rail links between Wales, Shropshire, and London.
Stephen Kinnock
I recognise the connectivity benefits of transport. The overall cross-border connectivity that has been announced relates to the £14 billion that we are going to invest in rail in Wales, with £455 million secured at the spending review. This plan will transform connectivity across Wales, and between Wales and the rest of the United Kingdom.
Session: Cross-border Rail Links 2026-09-02
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I thank the Asylum Minister for his professional courtesy in calling me on Friday to say that the asylum dispersal plans for Stoke Heath in my constituency have now been scrapped. I am grateful for that, and it is a great relief to many residents—it was a completely inappropriate location from the get-go. However, can I ask him to put on the record whether the Government have any plans to put asylum seekers into Clive barracks at Tern Hill in Shropshire, which is currently home to the Royal Irish Regiment?
Context
Previously proposed asylum dispersal plans for Stoke Heath in the questioner's constituency have been scrapped. The question asks if there are any plans to use Clive barracks at Tern Hill as an alternative site.
Alex Norris
I am grateful for that question and the spirit in which the right hon. Gentleman asked it. We have proposed three new sites and the extension of time at two others, but those decisions have not finally been made.
Session: Topical Questions 2026-07-13
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St Andrew's primary school in Shifnal is undergoing a multi-million pound rebuild. Can you commit that the funding will be delivered so that the school can continue to offer extra places and nursery spaces as part of the scheme?
Context
St Andrew's primary school is about to undergo a multi-million pound rebuild, with most of the funding coming from the Department for Education.
Bridget Phillipson
I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for raising what is obviously a very important case in his constituency. I will ensure that I look into the concerns he has raised and, if it would help him to meet a Minister to discuss it further, I will ensure that that is arranged too.
Session: Schools Funding
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Is there not a fundamental conflict of interest for this Government and previous Government in that big tech companies are so embedded in Government Departments and agencies that the Government are not prepared to take the tough action necessary to protect children and the most vulnerable? Is it not the case that big tech companies are not paying taxes to this country and are avoiding substantive regulation, and that the Government now believe that big tech is too big to fail?
Context
Big tech companies are accused of being embedded in Government Departments, avoiding taxes and substantive regulation, leading to a reluctance to take tough actions necessary for child protection.
Liz Kendall
We have made decisive moves to back more British tech companies because we believe artificial intelligence and technology should benefit everyone in this country. We are shaping powerful technology so it works for all, and there will be more actions coming soon.
Session: Child Protection Online
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The youngest children in care are babies, some of whom reside in mother and baby units around the country due to no fault of their own. With these babies typically taken away from their mothers after 18 months on a case-by-case basis, should part of the sentencing review consider whether it is appropriate for mothers and babies—particularly the babies—to be imprisoned at all, except in the most serious criminal cases?
Context
There are currently 36 babies residing in mother and baby units, with the youngest being taken away from their mothers after 18 months. It is questioned whether imprisonment of such young children is appropriate.
Jake Richards
I thank the hon. Member for that important question; he is right to raise the matter. Indeed, he raised a similar theme in the Commons just yesterday. Lord Timpson has a particular focus on female offenders and women inmates in prison, and he will make an announcement in due course.
Session: Criminalisation of Children in Care
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One way to support growth in Wales, and indeed in Shropshire, is to support the Wrexham, Shropshire & Midland Railway’s open access application to the Office of Rail and Road. Will the Secretary of State make a commitment, similar to that of the Transport Secretary, that the Government will not get in the way of this application and will allow growth in Shropshire, Wales and the border market towns?
Jo Stevens
I have to apologise to the right hon. Member. I did not hear the first part of his question, but I am very happy to chat to him afterwards. If he writes to me, I will give him a full answer.
Session: Economic Growth
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Will the hon. Lady write to the Local Government Minister, because I think some councils are a little bit timid when it comes to faith-based organisations? The dioceses of Lichfield and Hereford, which fall under The Wrekin constituency and are partly in the Telford constituency, do a fantastic job, but I think there is a problem between central Government, local government and the Church of England in communicating, sharing resources and actually delivering new services for young people together.
Context
There are issues with communication and resource sharing among central Government, local government, and the Church of England in delivering new services for young people.
Marsha de Cordova
The right hon. Member highlights the true value of what can happen in our local communities when churches, local authorities and all other stakeholders work together. Yes, I will take him up on that, and write to the Local Government Minister to encourage such a co-working relationship in his constituency.
Session: Children and Young People
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After having insulted Great Britain for our response in not joining his war and then claiming that he did not need British help after having “already won” the war, President Donald Trump has now sent an SOS to the world, including to the UK and other NATO allies, to help him protect the strait of Hormuz. I think it is in our national interests to stop the disruption to global shipping, because otherwise that will drive up the cost of goods and the cost of living for my Slough constituents and others across the country. Will the Secretary of State clarify what the Government's response will be to the US President's request? How will my right hon. Friend ensure the safety of British armed forces personnel if they are to engage in any such operations?
Context
US President Donald Trump has requested help from the UK and NATO allies in securing the strait of Hormuz, which is crucial for international shipping.
John Healey
As the Prime Minister said this morning, in fact—my hon. Friend is right—the strait of Hormuz is vital. It is vital to the international economy and to security. We are in continued conversations with European allies and the US. These questions are complex, and any plans must be multilateral, with as many nations taking part as possible.
Session: Middle East UK Armed Forces Personnel
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I was always on the reserve bench, but I am delighted to be called. On a serious point, Great British Railways and the Office of Rail and Road will potentially have a conflict of interest when deciding on open access agreements such as the application of the Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands Railway company, which will bring about £2.2 million of growth into Shropshire's economy and full direct rail services to London every day. Could the Secretary of State reassure all my businesses and constituents in the Wrekin that there is no conflict of interest between Great British Railways and the Office of Rail and Road when deciding these applications?
Context
Concerns about potential conflict of interest between Great British Railways and the Office of Rail and Road regarding open access agreements.
Heidi Alexander
I fear that the right hon. Gentleman may have misunderstood the proposals for reform in the Railways Bill. In future, open access decisions will be taken by Great British Railways, and applicants will have a right of appeal to the ORR. There is no conflict of interest. I can also assure him that in the past I have been as supportive, from the Department for Transport, as Network Rail has been of the open access application from Wrexham, Shropshire and the west midlands, and I will maintain my support for the proposals going forward.
Session: Rail Transport and Economic Growth
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Welcoming the Government's commitment to tackle violence against women and girls, I ask whether improvements in our criminal justice system will be complemented by enhancements within the family justice system to address domestic abuse more effectively?
Context
While the Government's focus is on policing, only a minority of domestic violence victims interact with police services. The role of other judicial systems like family courts and civil courts is crucial.
Jess Phillips
While questions are often Home Office related, only 10% of domestic abuse victims ever interact with policing. Therefore, all elements including family courts and civil courts play a crucial role in the violence against women and girls strategy.
Session: Domestic Violence Victim Support
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Can I suggest that the Government revisit the strength of having a cross-party approach? On UK Export Finance in high-risk investment areas, such as rebuilding Syria by getting jobs and investment into that country quickly, can I ask that UK Export Finance underwrites with insurance those high-risk investments?
Context
Mark Pritchard, a former trade envoy to Georgia and Armenia, highlights the current lack of cross-party representation in trade envoys.
Chris Bryant (Minister of State, Department for Business and Trade)
We need to do better on addressing issues with visas and business mobility that the Home Office and the Department are discussing with our European allies. On UK Export Finance in high-risk investment areas such as Syria, I have had discussions about how we can roll that out.
Session: Encouraging Exports
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Given threats from Russia and elsewhere with hypersonic capabilities, does it mean all our constituents are defenseless without a proper system?
Context
Concern over the lack of comprehensive anti-hypersonic, anti-ballistic missile defence systems in the UK.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
We must take seriously our homeland defence, as pointed out in the strategic defence review. We are doing more on this front.
Session: Topical Questions
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Across the west midlands, there is currently a backlog of 6,000 Crown court cases, many of which are sexual offence cases. In Shropshire, 759 cases are outstanding at Shrewsbury Crown court. Will the Minister commit to looking at the midlands circuit and seeing whether more rape and serious sexual offences resources can be given so that there can be suitably qualified and trained judges and advocates, and cases can be brought more quickly and swiftly to court? In Shropshire, some of those court cases are potentially two years out.
Context
Mark Pritchard highlights a backlog of over 6000 cases in the west midlands with many being sexual offense cases. He raises concern about delays for victims.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of Justice (Alex Davies-Jones)
I thank the right hon. Gentleman for the question and the way in which he asked it. As he will know, the Government are doing all we can to bear down on the backlog in our Crown courts. That is why we have tasked Sir Brian Leveson with looking at how we can best get to grips with it. The right hon. Gentleman is right, however. I have sadly spoken to far too many rape and sexual violence victims who are waiting far too long for their day in court, which has an impact on them. We are straining every sinew, working with the judiciary and colleagues in the Crown Prosecution Service, to better support these victims and ensure that when they do get that day in court, they can access justice appropriately and have the best support available to them. I will happily work with him and anyone else in the House to ensure that any victim of crime has the support they need.
Session: Violence against Women and Girls
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Since the Chancellor delivered her speech this morning, the FTSE 100 has dropped by over £22 billion—the real £22 billion rather than the fantasy £22 billion black hole. What can the Chancellor say right now to steady the markets so that all our constituents’ pensions are protected?
Context
Since the Chancellor's speech, the FTSE 100 has dropped by over £22 billion.
The Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury (Torsten Bell)
What this Government have done to steady the markets is to kick the Conservatives out of office and leave them in opposition for years to come.
Session: Topical Questions
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Ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit, what representations has the Foreign Secretary made to the White House to ensure that when President Trump meets President Xi, the case of Jimmy Lai will be raised?
Context
British national Jimmy Lai is currently in solitary confinement in a prison in Hong Kong, where he has been for five years and his trial will soon conclude.
Yvette Cooper
We continue to be deeply distressed by this case and continue to make representations, discuss the case with the US and stay in contact with Jimmy Lai’s family.
Session: Topical Questions
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Is the Justice Secretary aware of the extraordinary length of time that victims of serious sexual assault and crimes must wait in the Shropshire courts, particularly Shrewsbury Crown court? It is double the 363 days that we have just heard from the Lib Dem Benches. What will the Justice Secretary do to help those victims, as well as the defendants who may, on occasion, be innocent?
Context
Shropshire courts, particularly Shrewsbury Crown court, have seen extraordinary lengths of time victims wait for serious sexual assault cases.
Lammy (Justice Secretary)
Under the previous Government, we saw devastating cuts to the police, with a reduction of 20,000 officers; no building of prisons at all—only 500 places; and the decimation of the Probation Service. We have had to get on with all that. Yes, we have made some strides in 14 months, but the devastation was big, and it will take a bit longer.
Session: Court Backlogs
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When is a deterrent going to be put in place, and what will it look like?
Context
Previous attempts at deterrents, such as the Rwanda agreement, have been criticized for their ineffectiveness.
The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Shabana Mahmood)
It is important not just to prevent criminality but also to hold our country together. The Rwanda agreement was ineffective and 84,000 people crossed into this country during its implementation. I will do whatever it takes to tackle illegal immigration; I am considering measures that will deter people from making the crossing in the first place, which I will update the House on in due course.
Session: Channel Crossings
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Is it time that the small number of ex-forces personnel from this country who are shamefully fighting for the Russian Federation, either directly in Ukraine or through proxies in north Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, had their pensions cancelled?
Context
Pensions forfeiture is rare and usually reserved for cases of serious criminal activity or convictions.
Al Carns
The right hon. Member raises an interesting point. Please write to me in due course with examples, and we will look into that, from a defence perspective.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State put on record his thanks for all the work of the men and women—the new engineers—taken on for the Boxer programme since March by Rheinmetall Defence and Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land? Shropshire is a defence hub, and I ask the new ministerial team whether the Government will continue to invest in Shropshire?
Context
Boxer programme has taken on new engineers and employees. The constituency is a defence hub with links between local universities, colleges, and the defence supply chain.
The Secretary of State for Defence (John Healey)
Far from being the reserve, the right hon. Gentleman is first up for the Opposition this afternoon, and I welcome that and the investment in Shropshire. The Government will continue to support that. We pay tribute to the workforce in his area.
Session: Defence Sector Innovation
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Do the Government actually have an Africa strategy—not just for north Africa, but for sub-Saharan Africa—and does the Foreign Secretary share my concern about the apparent lack of focus on the importance of sub-Saharan Africa to the security of the United States, let alone to our security and that of Africa itself? I encourage the Foreign Secretary to reach out to the US Secretary of State, and to join European partners in having a joined-up Africa strategy to deal with climate change, famine and terrorism in the Sahel and all across Africa—issues that are impacting on communities there, and on legal migration to this country. Will he work with his American partners?
Context
There is an apparent lack of focus on sub-Saharan Africa, impacting security and migration.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for raising Africa. The first thing that we did on coming into office was establish an Africa approach and a widespread consultation across the continent—that is absolutely right. We must be careful that authoritarian powers do not move in where the west exits. I reassure him that I have raised and discussed those issues with Secretary of State Rubio.
Session: Sudan
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Does the Secretary of State agree that our fire services should be a statutory consultee on future planning applications for battery storage?
Context
Concerns about the safety of solar energy feeding into battery energy storage systems have been raised.
The Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero (Ed Miliband)
This is an important issue that needs to be taken seriously. At present it comes under health and safety regime, but consulting best arrangements to ensure highest standards of safety as growth in batteries seen.
Session: Clean Power Jobs
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Melia, Gvaramia, Badri Japaridze, Khazaradze, Zurab Japaridze and Vashadze: all six opposition leaders arrested over the last two weeks in Georgia. What are the British Government going to do about it, and what is the message from the British Government to the Georgian people, who are suffering as a result of this huge democratic backsliding?
Context
The question addresses recent arrests of opposition leaders in Georgia.
Stephen Doughty
The Georgian people have made clear their Euro-Atlantic aspirations. We absolutely condemn not only those arrests of opposition politicians, but the closing down of civil society space. I have communicated my concerns directly to Georgian Dream in recent weeks, and will be doing so again.
Session: Topical Questions
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Given that the UK has some of the best intelligence agencies in the world with huge powers and budgets to keep our country safe every day, is it not time for the Intelligence and Security Committee to have new powers of oversight and even sanctions to ensure public confidence in these agencies' scrutiny?
Context
Question about the Intelligence and Security Committee's oversight and scrutiny of intelligence agencies, referencing the outdated Intelligence Services Act 1994.
The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Pat McFadden)
Let me echo the right hon. Member’s words in paying tribute to the work that our intelligence and security agencies do in keeping us all safe every day. The Government have approved an uplift in resources for the Committee, and we are working closely with it on the best operating model for doing its job as effectively as possible.
Session: Topical Questions
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The Foreign Secretary will know that this is a five-year draft constitution. Does he share my concern that the legislative, Executive and judicial separation of powers in it need to be beefed up? The appointment of the new Government appears, prima facie, to be inclusive, but does he agree that the people’s committee also needs to be inclusive given that it will be mostly appointed by the President?
Context
There are concerns about the five-year draft constitution of Syria, particularly regarding the separation of powers and inclusivity in the people’s committee.
The Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Mr David Lammy)
Clearly, it is welcome that the new Government have moved in this direction. I reassure the right hon. Gentleman that we recognise our skills in governance and in working with allies and partners, and we will use that strength to help to support the new Government. We are aware of his concerns and we will work with the new Government to get that better separation that he wants.
Session: Syrian Constitutional Declaration
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Is the Home Secretary aware of the growing link, as highlighted by a recent Durham University report, between rural crime and serious organised crime? If not, could she ask her officials to bring it to her attention? Given the transnational element to this serious organised crime, could the National Crime Agency start to take a closer look at rural crime?
Context
A recent Durham University report highlights the growing link between rural crime and serious organised crime, particularly targeting areas where criminals believe they can operate with less scrutiny.
Yvette Cooper
I am aware of this, and I think there is a very serious issue about how serious and organised crime has increasingly been targeting rural areas and things such as the GPS equipment used by farmers. The point about those involved in serious and organised crime is that they will always target areas where they think they can get away with it. That is why the issue is partly about the work of the National Crime Agency, but also about the work of police forces across the country and the work we need to do to take forward a rural crime strategy with the National Police Chiefs’ Council.
Session: Topical Questions
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As part of the defence industrial strategy, does the Minister of State recognise the link between successful defence vehicle manufacturing, such as Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land manufacturing the Challenger 3 tank in my constituency, and the onshoring of barrel technology and defence engineering? Does she recognise the link between that skills cluster and the importance of companies such as RBSL having a future in manufacturing not just vehicles but barrels?
Context
Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land manufactures the Challenger 3 tank in Mark Pritchard's constituency. The Member seeks recognition of the importance of skills clusters and onshoring capabilities.
The Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry (Maria Eagle)
I do not disagree at all. I look forward to visiting the right hon. Gentleman’s constituency and to seeing the potential of firms. He is completely correct that clusters of excellence and skill are the way forward.
Session: Defence Industrial Strategy SMEs
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Will she put on record her thanks for the excellent work of West Mercia police, who recently arrested people on charges relating to drugs and firearms? What more can the National Crime Agency do to support rural forces like West Mercia?
Context
The MP questions the effectiveness of support provided to smaller and rural police forces, such as West Mercia Police, in combating drug-related crime.
Yvette Cooper
I certainly welcome the work that has been done to tackle the gangs the right hon. Gentleman refers to. Such crimes have a huge impact on communities. We need the National Crime Agency working not just through the regional organised crime units, but with local forces right through to the neighbourhood police on the beat.
Session: Serious and Organised Crime
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Does the Minister share my concern about worrying reports of North Korean troops fighting for Russia in Ukraine? What message would he give from the Dispatch Box to Pyongyang?
Context
Worrying reports of North Korean troops fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
Stephen Doughty
I absolutely share the right hon. Gentleman's concerns. The Foreign Secretary has been clear that we condemn in the strongest terms the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's continued unlawful arms transfers, and the reported deployments of its troops to the Russian Federation to support the unlawful war of aggression in Ukraine. That is not only in violation of multiple United Nations Security Council resolutions, but it will also prolong the suffering of the Ukrainian people and threatens global security, so we condemn it in absolute terms.
Session: Ukraine
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Why is it left to parents in the UK to take litigation against big tech companies for online harm? The Minister knows that online harm goes beyond fraud to impact people's lives through suicide sites. Why are British parents left to fight these cases alone?
Context
Online harm extends beyond fraud to include suicide sites and unregulated platforms. The European Commission is investigating Facebook and Instagram, while the US is introducing a kids online safety Act.
Dan Jarvis
This is a priority for the Department, given that 70% of fraud has an international element, particularly online. One in 18 adults were victims of fraud in the year ending March 2024. We are working closely with other Government Departments to address this issue.
Session: Fraud and Economic Crime
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What bilateral discussions the UK has had on this?
Context
AUKUS partners have been discussing potential bilateral engagements.
Luke Pollard
Those conversations have been taking place at official level within the Ministry of Defence and at political level, and we are continuing to work to bring those forward because if we want to buy the high-end war-winning kit that we need, the best way of doing that is to work with our partners.
Session: AUKUS Strategic Partnership
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Would he, or perhaps the Minister for Veterans' Affairs, consider visiting the centre soon?
Context
Excellent work of Battle Back Centre in Lilleshall for treating injured serving and ex-service personnel.
Andrew Murrison
I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for the invitation, which I will most gladly take up... I pay tribute to Battle Back, which does a wonderful job.
Session: Support for Veterans
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Wellington is an 800-year-old market town that has received significant investment recently. In the last three years, £3 million from the towns fund, £10 million from the levelling-up fund and £800,000 have provided record investment into Wellington. The Labour council has just taken over the management of the market. Will the Secretary of State ensure that they do not mess it up?
Context
In the last three years, £3 million from the towns fund, £10 million from the levelling-up fund and £800,000 have provided record investment into Wellington, a 800-year-old market town in Shropshire.
Michael Gove
We will do everything we can. Wellington is very lucky to have such a brilliant advocate.
Session: Topical Questions
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It is normal in these circumstances to invite a Minister to visit a constituency. The Minister is welcome to visit my constituency, The Wrekin in Shropshire, and the Telford and Wrekin borough, but if he visits the Telford and Wrekin borough bit, could he bring a spare tyre? The potholes there are enormous. I thank him for allowing £32 million to be released over the next 11 years to ensure that those potholes are filled.
Context
The MP invites a Minister to visit his constituency to see the severe pothole issues firsthand. He thanks the government for allocating £32 million over 11 years for road repairs.
Simon Hoare
As I struggle with my Lenten observations, I need no lessons about spare tyres—it is all about trying to get rid of spare tyres, as far as I am concerned. I am grateful for my right hon. Friend's comments. The Wrekin is a part of Shropshire that I know well. Those sums can and should be used by upper-tier authorities, which are the highways authority, to ensure that their networks are working well, smoothly and safely.
Session: Local Government Finance Potholes
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Could the Minister look at the rural services delivery grant to see what more can be done for large rural counties like Shropshire? Councillor Lezley Picton is praised for his work despite financial challenges.
Context
Shropshire Council has made significant efficiency savings but still faces challenges in reducing the deficit. The MP seeks further support from the Minister.
Simon Hoare
I am grateful to my hon. Friend and for the work that Councillor Picton does as the leader of his council. He is absolutely right to point to the continued importance of innovation, change and reform to ensure value for money—that is key—and to highlight the importance of the rural services delivery grant.
Session: Council Budget Deficits
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Every life lost, whether Palestinian or Israeli, is a tragedy. In conflict, children suffer most. What discussions has my right hon Friend had with the US and other partners on new humanitarian pauses? Is the Israeli response proportionate?
Context
Discussions about the need for humanitarian pauses in Gaza and concerns over the proportionality of Israel's military actions.
Andrew Mitchell
We are arguing for five-day humanitarian pauses to allow relief supplies into Gaza. On proportionality, we emphasise adherence to rules of war.
Session: Gaza Civilian Deaths and Humanitarian Situation
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Beyond the traditional methods of support for SEND, the Minister will know that councils give specialist provisions, and we have heard a lot today about some of those longer-term provisions, for children in particular, and the time involved. What assessment does the Department make when looking at the distance that some of these children need to travel to get this specialist support, particularly when it is out of county—for example, Shropshire into Staffordshire? It may not seem a long distance, but on some of those meandering, serpentine roads it can take a very long time to travel 20 miles.
Context
Councils provide specialist provisions for children with special educational needs, and some placements are out of county. The question focuses on the distance that some children need to travel to get this support.
David Johnston
My right hon. Friend makes an important point. Out of county placements are not ideal for the child and their family or for the cost to the local authority, which is why we have 78 new special schools in fruition. We are also committed to seeing the children whose needs can be met in a mainstream school being supported at an early enough stage with their special educational needs.
Session: Pupils with SEN and Disabilities 2023-12-11 (2)
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Will my hon. Friend liaise with colleagues and the National Farmers Union on combining community energy schemes with farmers in rural areas? Why does the solar taskforce mention supermarket rooftops but not farm buildings?
Context
Solar taskforce initiatives have overlooked farm buildings as potential sites for solar installations.
Andrew Bowie
I hear very much what my right hon. Friend says and understand his concerns. I accept a meeting on behalf of the Minister to discuss these issues moving forward.
Session: Community Energy Schemes
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Role of Big Tech in Society
23 June 2026
Responding: Kanishka Narayan
Main Concerns
['Mr. Mark Pritchard is concerned about the growing reliance on big tech companies by governments, which he sees as a strategic risk to national sovereignty and democracy. He notes that while private sector collaboration can benefit government efficiency, it also poses risks of power ceding to large tech firms without democratic oversight or accountability. He mentions that some major figures in technology have expressed skepticism towards democracy, questioning whether big tech is politically neutral.']
Specific Asks
['Mr. Pritchard asks the Government to establish their own centre for tech research and development to ensure national control over critical technologies and data, rather than outsourcing everything to private companies. He calls for smarter regulation of tech firms and more competition within the industry to rebalance the relationship between government and big tech.']
Defence Manufacturing and Procurement: Shropshire — [Mrs Maria Miller in the Chair]
16 December 2020
Responding: Jeremy Quin
Main Concerns
['I am concerned about the economic impact of defence manufacturing in Shropshire, particularly regarding job losses since March. The region is a crucial hub for defence engineering and manufacturing, with companies such as BAE Systems, Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land, GKN, Lockheed Martin, Babcock International, and Caterpillar Defence playing significant roles. I also highlight the importance of the Challenger 2 life extension programme, which would support over 60 local suppliers and create new job opportunities.']
Specific Asks
["I ask the Minister to provide updates on the progress of the Challenger 2 life extension programme and to confirm if there will be any announcements regarding this programme during today's debate. I also request that the Government supports small businesses entering defence supply chains and ensures the continuation of skilled engineering jobs in Shropshire."]
Falkland Islands: Sovereignty
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Palestine
08 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Economic Growth
07 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Direction of Government
01 September 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Death of Ann Widdecombe
13 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran Conflict: Ceasefire
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
NATO Summit
09 July 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Defence Investment Plan
30 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Asylum Accommodation
29 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
G7 Summit
22 June 2026
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Attendance
68.4%
67 of 98 votes
Aye Votes
39
39.8% of votes
No Votes
28
28.6% of votes
Abstentions
31
31.6% of votes
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Closure motion
Ayes: 293
Noes: 218
Passed
11 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill: Second Reading
Ayes: 270
Noes: 286
Failed
10 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Social Housing Bill [Lords]: Reasoned Amendment to Second Reading
Ayes: 77
Noes: 292
Failed
09 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Plant Health, Seeds, Seed Potatoes and Plant Propagating Material (Ame...
Ayes: 371
Noes: 100
Passed
08 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 140
Ayes: 79
Noes: 300
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 142
Ayes: 108
Noes: 357
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 143
Ayes: 106
Noes: 302
Failed
08 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: Amendment 1
Ayes: 162
Noes: 297
Failed
07 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 6
Ayes: 77
Noes: 317
Failed
07 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Health Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 145
Ayes: 170
Noes: 316
Failed
04 Sep 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Motion to sit in private
Ayes: 1
Noes: 79
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 65
Ayes: 166
Noes: 346
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED AYE
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 67
Ayes: 105
Noes: 410
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Report Stage: New Clause 88
Ayes: 85
Noes: 427
Failed
02 Sep 2026
VOTED NO
Representation of the People Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 411
Noes: 102
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunal (Extension of Time Limits) (Miscellaneous Amendments and...
Ayes: 322
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED NO
Employment Tribunals Extension of Jurisdiction (England and Wales) (Amendment...
Ayes: 318
Noes: 107
Passed
01 Jul 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 80
Noes: 281
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 4
Ayes: 173
Noes: 282
Failed
01 Jul 2026
VOTED AYE
Taxation (Energy and Vehicles) Bill Committee: New Clause 5
Ayes: 177
Noes: 308
Failed
24 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Customs (Tariff and Miscellaneous Amendments) (No. 4) Regulations 2026
Ayes: 323
Noes: 160
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Carbon Budget Order 2026
Ayes: 332
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (International Aviation and International Shipp...
Ayes: 329
Noes: 94
Passed
24 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Draft Climate Change Act 2008 (Credit Limit) Order 2026
Ayes: 330
Noes: 93
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition day: Defence spending and readiness
Ayes: 108
Noes: 307
Failed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Opposition Day Motion: Defence spending and readiness - Prime Minister's Amen...
Ayes: 294
Noes: 110
Passed
23 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Opposition Day: Puberty blockers
Ayes: 112
Noes: 283
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 4
Ayes: 164
Noes: 311
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 11
Ayes: 104
Noes: 391
Failed
22 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: New Clause 22
Ayes: 74
Noes: 323
Failed
22 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Armed Forces Bill Report Stage: Amendment 11
Ayes: 171
Noes: 322
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
National Security (State Threats) Bill: Allocation of Time motion
Ayes: 233
Noes: 94
Passed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 3
Ayes: 85
Noes: 317
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 8
Ayes: 143
Noes: 249
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: Amendment 13
Ayes: 135
Noes: 258
Failed
17 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
National Security (State Threats) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 144
Noes: 244
Failed
16 Jun 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 77
Noes: 255
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 151
Noes: 258
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED AYE
Cyber Security and Resilience (Network and Information Systems) Bill Remainin...
Ayes: 162
Noes: 246
Failed
16 Jun 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Clean Air Zones Central Services (Fees) (England) (Amendment) Regulatio...
Ayes: 262
Noes: 86
Passed
24 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Opposition Day: Protections for children from online harms
Ayes: 69
Noes: 279
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: Amendment 1
Ayes: 161
Noes: 272
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 2
Ayes: 156
Noes: 273
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Industry and Exports (Financial Assistance) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 77
Noes: 280
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill Committee: New Clause 3
Ayes: 73
Noes: 256
Failed
23 Feb 2026
DID NOT VOTE
Universal Credit (Removal of Two Child Limit) Bill: Third Reading
Ayes: 361
Noes: 84
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) (Extension to Marit...
Ayes: 362
Noes: 107
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Local Government Finance Report (England) 2026-27
Ayes: 277
Noes: 143
Passed
11 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Referendums Relating to Council Tax Increases (Principles) (England) Report 2...
Ayes: 279
Noes: 90
Passed
04 Feb 2026
VOTED NO
Draft Greenhouse Gas Emissions Trading Scheme (Amendment) Order 2026
Ayes: 392
Noes: 116
Passed
8
PMQs Asked
56
Ministerial Questions Asked
175
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
5
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
98
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1370 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+119% above average
This MP:
8
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+318% above average
This MP:
56
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+3501% above average
This MP:
175
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-47% below average
This MP:
5
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-1% below average
This MP:
68.4
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Mark Pritchard's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.